Ohio State reached the College Football Playoff last season without winning the Big Ten title. This season the Buckeyes are even more talented and the conference favorite, so figure they'll make a return trip to the postseason.

The fine print of the Ohio State coach's contract reveals why the skies are so friendly for him.

play

Is Ohio State the best team in the country? (1:07)

Chris Low ESPN Senior Staff Writer

The clock in the Ohio State football complex is already counting down (to the second) to The Game. Urban Meyer is 5-0 vs. Michigan and 26-3 vs. his chief rivals during his head coaching career. Meyer said rivalries are what separate college football from the NFL. "I grew up in the 10-year war with Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler. ... For 365 days, you have to live with it if you lose this game," Meyer told ESPN.

share

play

Have the Buckeyes won enough under Meyer? (2:54)

Chris Low ESPN Senior Staff Writer

One of the most obvious changes for Ohio State this season is new offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson. Head coach Urban Meyer told ESPN on Wednesday that Wilson brings a "swagger" to the Buckeyes' offense and Meyer has been encouraged by what he's seen this preseason in terms of their ability to make more big plays down the field.

Alabama is expected to open the season No. 1 and might very well be No. 1 after the College Football Playoff is settled. But FPI says Ohio State will have the easiest time getting to the postseason, thanks to the Buckeyes' schedule and returning talent.